Shows
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldBONUS: The Night Nobody Came Knocking – A Father’s Day StorySend us a textThis is a special bonus episode in honor of Father’s Day 2025.On an ordinary evening in 1960s Cleveland, an unexpected knock at the door changed the way I saw my father forever.This short, true story is a tribute to Robert Joseph Zett (aka, Dad), a working-class man who never thought of himself as brave—but showed me what quiet courage really looks like.Video Link:The Night Nobody Came Knocking – A Father’s Day Story Book website: http...2025-06-1406 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldLetters, Ledgers, and Lost LivesSend us a textIt’s May 31st—an important date if, like me, you have roots in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. On this day in 1889, the South Fork Dam gave way, and a wall of water wiped out most of the city. Over 2,000 lives were lost. It was a manmade disaster—tragic, preventable, and all too familiar.In this episode, I begin with the story of Maggie Irwin, a chambermaid who died in the Johnstown Flood at age 18. Her mother saved the letters Maggie sent home during her brief time working in a hotel—and because of those...2025-06-0137 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldEastland 1905: Burning Water, Missed WarningsSend us a textIn this episode, I explore a seldom documented incident involving the Eastland steamship from August 1905—ten years before the infamous Eastland Disaster of 1915. This forgotten event reveals important patterns in the ship's troubled history and adds crucial context to understanding the later tragedy.Episode Highlights:Rosemary Pietrzak's Passing: I begin with a tribute to Rosemary Pietrzyk, who passed away at 94. Rosemary was the first person I met who also lost family in the Eastland Disaster, and her insight that "They didn't die on the Eastland, but th...2025-03-1633 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldDisaster Dodger – One Woman’s Escape ArtistrySend us a textDeath came knocking three times—but Bertha Behrend Healy wasn't home.In this episode, I uncover the jaw-dropping story of a woman who narrowly escaped not one, not two, but THREE of America's deadliest disasters:The Johnstown Flood (1889) - A catastrophic dam collapse that killed 2,200+ people while Bertha's family fled to higher ground just in timeThe Iroquois Theatre Fire (1903) - 602 victims perished when Chicago's "fireproof" theatre became a deathtrap, but 11-year-old Bertha's mother kept her home that frigid nightThe Ea...2025-03-0132 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldMargaret Dreier Robins - Voice of ThunderSend us a textIt’s time to explore the remarkable life of Margaret Dreier Robins, a powerful yet often overlooked voice in the Eastland disaster narrative. Born into privilege in 1868, Margaret chose to dedicate her life to labor reform and women's rights, becoming a pivotal figure in Chicago's social justice movement.Key points:Margaret's early life and her transition from New York socialite to social reformerHer work with the Women's Trade Union League and Hull House alongside Jane AddamsHer crucial but largely forgotten warnings about the Eastland's dangers before the 1915 disasterThe sh...2025-01-1234 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldThe Diver and the Janitor: Heroes, Loss, and the Price of TragedySend us a text*Content warning: This episode contains a brief mention of suicide* In this episode of Season 3, I explore two powerful stories from the 1915 Eastland disaster in Chicago that showcase both heroism and devastating loss.Meet Captain Dan Donovan: Chicago's Hero DiverI take you into the world of early 20th century Chicago with Captain Dan Donovan, the city's chief diver whose extraordinary career spanned decades. From battling ice-choked waters to maintain Chicago's crucial water infrastructure to his heroic work during the Eastland disaster, Donovan's...2025-01-0539 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldTWICE BURIED & THE MYSTERY OF EASTLAND VICTIM #571Send us a textContent Note: This episode deals with themes of death and misidentification. Please listen with care.In episode 94 of Flower in the River, I’m diving into one of the most puzzling mysteries of the Eastland Disaster: the case of Emma Meyer and the confusion surrounding Victim #571. What started as a chance discovery during an archival search turned into a whirlwind of genealogical digging and conflicting records that left me completely floored.Here’s what I uncovered:The tangled story of two women, both named Emma...2024-12-2840 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldLane Tech: Triumph Through TragedySend us a textThis week, I’m diving into the touching story of Lane Technical High School students who tragically lost their lives in the Eastland disaster of 1915. These weren’t just names on a list—they were vibrant young men with big futures ahead of them. From a baseball captain to a Moody Church Sunday School member, I’ll take you through their personal histories and the incredible ways their school honored them after the tragedy. Here’s what I’ll cover in this episode:Lane Tech’s incredible legacy as Chicago’s fi...2024-12-2232 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldFrom Factory Floor to Fighting Ring: Another Eastland StorySend us a textThis episode opens with my reflection on our podcast's year-end Buzzsprout statistics, which revealed some surprising reach - listeners in 17 countries, 49 episodes (soon to be 52--I hope!), and 1,910 downloads. I share my special appreciation for our unexpected following in Coloma, Wisconsin (population abt. 460), where an incredible 33% of the village has become loyal listeners. I discuss how this podcast has evolved from simply telling my family's story into a broader mission of documenting and preserving the many untold stories of the Eastland disaster. As I mention, some of these episodes seem to "w...2024-12-1539 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldWhen the River Took Over: Stories Nearly Left BehindSend us a textEpisode Description:Welcome to Episode 91 of Flower in the River! This week, we’re diving into two extraordinary stories from the Eastland disaster, showcasing why history is about people—not just numbers. We’ll explore the firsthand account of E.J. Smith, an engineer who witnessed the Eastland aftermath and painted a vivid picture of the chaos, heartbreak, and heroism. Then, we’ll meet Orvin T. Havey, a young survivor who saved lives in the midst of tragedy and went on to live a remarka...2024-12-0841 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldThe Machinist, the Merchant, and the Sweetheart: Stories from the Chicago RiverSend us a textThe 1915 Eastland disaster cast a long shadow over Chicago, and many stories from that day remain hidden—often in plain sight! This week, we’re uncovering more overlooked narratives to ensure they are remembered. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:John A. Rusk’s Quiet HeroismA produce merchant whose store became a rescue hub during the Eastland disaster. His obituary, hidden in an obscure newspaper, highlights his critical role—a narrative you won’t find in mainstream Eastland histories. Robert F. Sn...2024-11-2830 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldThe Tomato Smuggler Who Survived a DisasterSend us a textIn today’s episode, I uncovered an extraordinary tale that intertwines the 1915 Eastland disaster, an heirloom tomato, and a present-day artist in Maine. This story, unearthed in the Franklin Journal and Farmington Chronicle from August 2023, is a beautiful reminder of how the Eastland’s legacy continues to emerge in surprising ways.Meet Henry (Enrico) Inciardi, a Sicilian immigrant who arrived in America in 1898 with tomato seeds secretly sewn into his clothing. Though Henry survived the Eastland disaster in 1915, his first wife, Antoinette, tragically did not. Yet his smuggled seeds carried forward a le...2024-11-2341 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldFront Page Gold, Footnote Dilemma: The Eastland’s Mixed LegacySend us a textHey everyone! I'm excited to share some fascinating discoveries about how Chicago newspapers covered the Eastland disaster in 1915. This episode takes us behind the scenes at the Chicago Evening Post through the eyes of a publication called "The Scoop" - which was essentially a newspaper about newspapers!First, I want to welcome all my new listeners who mysteriously appeared this week. Not sure where you came from, but I'm grateful you're here!Key highlights from this episode:Deep dive into how the Chicago Evening Post handled the breaking...2024-11-1741 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldBones, History, Heart: Helen Sclair’s Death QuestSend us a textEpisode Highlights:Introducing Helen Sclair: In this episode, I explore the life of Helen Sclair, a unique and quirky “cemetery-ologist” who had a deep love for Chicago’s history, especially as it relates to its cemeteries. Helen dedicated her life to preserving the stories of those buried in Chicago’s historic cemeteries, including many of the Eastland disaster victims.The Bohemian National Cemetery: Helen had a special connection with Bohemian National Cemetery, where around 143 Eastland victims were laid to rest. She also lived there!2024-11-1036 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldBohemian Rhapsody - Forgotten by the River, Remembered at the CemeterySend us a textIn this episode, we explore the rich history and legacy of Chicago’s Bohemian National Cemetery—a place that’s so much more than a resting place. We’ll explore what it really means to be “Bohemian” (no, not absinthe-drinking artists) and how this historic cemetery, founded by Czech immigrants, became a site of resilience, community, and remembrance.Highlights: Introducing New Listeners: Natalie welcomes listeners from around the world, including folks from the Philippines, Spain, and even her family in Slovakia! Bohemian National Cemetery: Learn why this...2024-11-0334 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldEastland 101: How NOT to Lose a History in 100 YearsSend us a textWelcome to Episode 85 of Flower in the River, where we dig deep into the enduring impact of the 1915 Eastland Disaster on Chicago and the families left behind. Inspired by my book of the same name, this episode takes us further into the lost narratives of the Eastland’s victims and heroes. Episode Highlights: Honoring the Forgotten: In this episode, I reflect on the countless Eastland Disaster victims and survivors whose stories remain untold. I’ll talk about how much of this history is right there in plain...2024-10-2739 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldFrom Eastland Witness to Radio Legend: John Griggs’ JourneySend us a textIn this episode (84), I explore the intriguing life of John Griggs, a talented actor from the Golden Age of Radio and Television—and an important witness to the Eastland disaster. I share his vivid account of that tragic day in 1915, which he wrote for American Heritage Magazine just two years before his death. His story gives us a rare and personal perspective on the catastrophe.John Griggs wasn’t just a familiar face and voice from radio and TV; he was also a passionate film preservationist. His extensive film...2024-10-1939 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldCommunity, Compassion, and Jewish Values: Lessons from the Eastland’s WatersSend us a textWelcome back to Flower in the River podcast! In this episode, we dive into the coverage of the 1915 Eastland disaster through The Sentinel, a historic Jewish newspaper in Chicago.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:The role The Sentinel played as a bridge between Chicago’s Jewish community and their evolving American identity.The 1997 article from the Chicago Tribune that reflects on The Sentinel’s legacy and closure after 85 years.A reading of The Sentinel’s powerful 1915 article, The Voice from the Eastland, offering a poignant reflection on the d...2024-10-1237 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldImmediate Ink, Enduring Impact - Eastland's Dual NarrativeSend us a textIn this episode, I continue exploring the Eastland disaster coverage, focusing on articles from The Scoop, featuring the Chicago Daily News (1915), and a later piece from the Bradenton Herald (1962). The episode highlights the power of eyewitness accounts and the lasting impact of the tragedy.Key PointsDiscussion of the Chicago Daily News coverage of the Eastland disasterEyewitness accounts from three Bradenton, Florida residents who witnessed the disaster in 1915Details about the rescue efforts and the tragedy's impact on ChicagoComparison of the Eastland disaster to other major Chicago tragedies2024-10-0525 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldTickers Tapping, Phones Ringing: Women Racing to Break the Eastland TragedySend us a textEastland Disaster on Chicago MedThe TV show Chicago Med referenced the Eastland disaster in its Season 10 premiere.Jenny Jose’s article in Central Recorder discussed this reference.Genealogy Conference HighlightsAttended a conference by the Association of Professional Genealogists, focusing on new technologies in genealogy.Ticker Tape and Gossip TickersExplored Frank Blaha’s mention of gossip tickers and provided historical context on ticker tape technology.Shared insights on ticker use during major events like the Titanic and Lusitania disasters.Ch...2024-09-2832 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldAlive & Anxious: Frank Escapes, Amelia WaitsSend us a textStep into a time machine and find yourself on the misty banks of the Chicago River in 1915. The air is thick with anticipation as thousands of Western Electric employees and their families prepare for a day of fun. Little do they know, history is about to be made – not in triumph, but in tragedy.Fast forward to 1976. One survivor and one daughter of a near-miss survivor-- their memories as clear as the day the Eastland capsized, sit before a microphone. Their voices, now preserved for eternity, paint a vivid picture of th...2024-09-1945 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldBadge-Worthy Bravery and the Journalist Who Missed the BoatSend us a textWhat if a single event could forever change the fate of countless families and a whole city? Join us this week as we unravel the untold stories of the 1915 Eastland disaster, starting with Ann Smith's riveting family history. Ann shares the valiant efforts of her grandfather, Floyd Cameron Smith, who leaped into action when the ship capsized, saving lives and earning recognition from the Chicago coroner. We also hear about Ann's maternal grandfather, Jay Bates, who narrowly escaped this tragic fate. These personal accounts offer a rare glimpse into the lives forever marked...2024-09-1544 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldStorytellers of the Eastland: From Tombstones to TrumpetsSend us a textIn episode 78 of Flower in the River podcast, I explore the power of storytelling through two distinct voices connected to the Eastland disaster. First, I introduce you to Jennifer from the Instagram page Posts in the Graveyard, a passionate storyteller who preserves the memory of Eastland victims through photographs and stories. I talk about how Jennifer's work adds depth and complements my own research, creating a fuller picture of the lives affected by the disaster.Next, I dive into The Jazz Palace...2024-09-0731 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldPencils, Presses, and Persistence: The Eastland's News HeroesSend us a textJoin me on a thrilling journey through time as we uncover the hidden world of early 20th-century journalism during one of Chicago's darkest hours--the Eastland Disaster of 1915.Highlights:My personal pilgrimage to a family grave site that started everything.The forgotten technology that powered breaking news in 1915"The Scoop," a trade journal that described the inner workings of Chicago's pressAn adrenaline-fueled race against time as reporters covered the Eastland disasterUnsung heroes who risked it all to bring the truth to lightFascinating Facts:Origins...2024-09-0144 min
Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally ToldRaw Knuckles, Bare Feet: Eastland's Unlikely HeroesSend us a textWelcome back to Flower in the River! In this episode, we explore the untold stories of two extraordinary individuals connected to the tragic Eastland Disaster of 1915. These heroes, whose tales have remained largely hidden from history, finally get the recognition they deserve.First, meet Amelia Schaefer Schmidt, a 15-year-old girl on what was supposed to be a joyous picnic day. Instead, Amelia found herself in a nightmare, surviving the capsizing of the Eastland with sheer determination and courage. Her story, preserved in interviews and newspaper articles, reveals the harrowing...2024-08-2348 min